1978–1987

The late 70s and early 80s brought some exciting challenges to Reis’ design firm. He created graphic visual identities for two notable San Francisco restaurants to brand their establishments. The first was the posh landmark Old Poodle Dog seeking a light and contemporary twist for their elegantly remodeled French eatery. The second, Square One, was a new restaurant in a slick, modern glass and marble space presenting fresh Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Proprietor Joyce Goldstein wanted an understated elegant design.

During this decade of exciting challenges, Reis co-founded a wholesale company to design and develop simple paper, wood, and fabric products for the trending homewares market. Porcellana products included kitchen apparel, gift wrap, stationery and gift items with a warm rustic aesthetic. Reis’ innovative packaging designs for Victorian Pantry received international acclaim and helped the company become a leader in the high-quality gourmet food market. 

“Gerald Reis’ work for Victorian Pantry and Porcellana are perfect examples of his Virtuoso Bravura of evoking precise memories beyond mere revivalism. His designs are able to relate to a tradition and transform it into a new context, but with the sense of vital strength and impact of our time.”
-Massimo Vignelli, 1985

Clients

Adobe Savings

American Conservatory Theatre

Claire Harrison & Associates

Folkwear

Great Midwestern Ice Cream Company

Hayes Furniture Company

Inn at the Tides

Old Poodle Dog Restaurant

Porcellana

Robinson Mills Architects

Rushcutters

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Stanford University

Square One Restaurant

Taubman Company

Victorian Pantry

Vintage Properties

World Savings

Bill Yoe